State pensions in the UK are set to increase from April 2025 following a £6.9 billion boost in spending on pensions and benefits. The House of Commons has approved the increase, ensuring pensioners receive a rise of 4.1% in line with average earnings growth.
This increase is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to the triple lock system, which ensures the state pension rises by the highest of inflation, earnings growth, or 2.5%. Let’s break down what this means for pensioners and how much they will receive.
Increases
From April 2025, pensioners will see an increase in their weekly, four-weekly, and annual payments. Here’s what the new rates will look like:
Full New State Pension
| Payment Type | New Rate (2025/26) | Previous Rate (2024/25) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | £230.25 | £221.20 |
| Four-weekly | £921.00 | £884.80 |
| Annual | £11,973.00 | £11,502.00 |
Full Basic State Pension
| Payment Type | New Rate (2025/26) | Previous Rate (2024/25) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | £176.45 | £169.50 |
| Four-weekly | £705.80 | £678.00 |
| Annual | £9,175.00 | £8,814.00 |
The increase ensures that pensioners maintain their spending power despite rising living costs.
Triple Lock
The triple lock system has been a key factor in the pension increase. It guarantees that the state pension rises by whichever is highest among:
- Inflation
- Average earnings growth
- A minimum of 2.5%
For 2025/26, the increase of 4.1% has been set based on average earnings growth, making sure pensioners keep up with the rising cost of living.
Pension Credit
Alongside the state pension increase, pension credit is also going up. The standard minimum guarantee will rise by 4.1%:
| Payment Type | New Rate (2025/26) | Previous Rate (2024/25) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioners | £227.10 per week | £218.15 per week |
| Couples | £346.60 per week | £332.95 per week |
This increase is aimed at helping low-income pensioners with additional financial support.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Full Basic State Pension, you need 30 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions.
For the Full New State Pension, you usually need 35 qualifying years of contributions.
Your state pension age depends on your date of birth, and you can check your eligibility through the government’s official website.
The government has confirmed its commitment to maintaining the triple lock system, but discussions around future welfare policies continue.
While the state pension increase is welcome news, debates remain on issues like pension taxation and welfare spending limits.
FAQs
How much will the state pension increase in April 2025?
The state pension will rise by 4.1%, with the Full New State Pension reaching £230.25 per week.
What is the triple lock system?
It guarantees that the state pension rises by inflation, earnings growth, or a minimum of 2.5%, whichever is highest.
Who qualifies for the Full Basic State Pension?
You need at least 30 years of National Insurance contributions to qualify.
What is the new pension credit rate?
For single pensioners, it will be £227.10 per week, and for couples, £346.60 per week.
